Acid reflux causes heartburn, a discomfort that happens when stomach acid rises into the esophagus and irritates the lining of the food pipe. Acid reflux can also lead to coughing, poor breath, and difficulty swallowing in addition to heartburn.
Heartburn that occurs frequently is typically an indication of gastroesophageal reflux illness (GERD). Most frequently, lifestyle choices like lying down after a large meal or consuming junk food cause this. Baking soda is an effective, natural relief option for heartburn – but is it safe? Read this article to find out. Do baking soda help with heartburn? Heartburn can be an unbearable experience, can baking soda and water provide easy, affordable help to bring you relief?
Some people turn to natural treatments like drinking a baking soda and water mix to relieve the symptoms of heartburn. But do these all-natural remedies actually work? This article will examine the potential advantages of using baking soda to treat heartburn as well as its drawbacks and other tried-and-true treatments.
Table of Contents
Heartburn: What Is It?
Heartburn is most frequently a sign of acid reflux, which happens when stomach acid rises into the esophagus and irritates the lining of the food pipe. There are other reasons for heartburn, as was previously mentioned.
Heartburn that occurs frequently is typically an indication of gastroesophageal reflux illness (GERD). Barrett’s esophagus, a kind of throat cancer, and esophageal inflammation can both develop as a result of untreated GERD (esophagitis).
Causes.
Heartburn can also be brought on by a number of different medical diseases, such as hiatal hernias, peptic ulcers, obesity, esophageal inflammation, weak lower esophageal sphincter (LES), and problems with stomach motility.
According to research, more than 60 million Americans, or 20% of the population, experience heartburn at least once every month. More than 15 million people, according to some research, reportedly experience heartburn symptoms at least once daily.
Symptoms
Heartburn or acid reflux can be triggered or made worse by a variety of factors, leading to a variety of symptoms. Foods like coffee and spicy meals, as well as lifestyle choices like smoking and inactivity, can act as triggers.
Heartburn is a symptom of acid reflux in and of itself, although it is frequently accompanied by other symptoms, such as:
1. Chest pain that feels like it’s burning.
An unpleasant burning feeling in the chest, typically behind the breast bone, is caused by irritation of the tissues in the esophagus.
2. Throat pain.
Regurgitation and adenoidal irritation brought on by acid reflux can lead to sore throats.
3. Mouthfeel with a sour or bitter taste.
You may occasionally get a bad taste in your mouth as a result of the backflow of gastric contents.
4. Difficulty swallowing.
Difficulty swallowing sometimes referred to as dysphagia can happen if the food does not move normally from the mouth via the esophagus to the stomach. This might occasionally seem like a choking or burning sensation in the chest.
5. Coughing continuously.
One of the most typical symptoms that go along with heartburn is a chronic cough.
Healing from Heartburn with Baking Soda
Baking soda, sometimes referred to as sodium bicarbonate, is an alkaline chemical substance. It’s available as a pill, solution, or granule (like the powder used in baking).
Sodium bicarbonate is an alkaline substance that can be used to treat heartburn. It functions by balancing too much stomach acid. It is a member of the antacid drug class. Do baking soda help with heartburn? Heartburn can be an unbearable experience, can baking soda and water provide easy, affordable help to bring you relief?
In certain medical circumstances, sodium bicarbonate may also be used off-label to increase the alkalinity of the blood and urine and treat ulcers (in the stomach or duodenum). You should see your doctor before using any supplement or medicine, as is the case with any other supplement or medication.
How to Treat Heartburn with Baking Soda
Because of its alkaline pH, sodium bicarbonate aids in balancing your stomach’s acidity. A 4-ounce glass of water with a half teaspoon of baking soda in it should usually be sufficient to aid with heartburn symptoms.
If this doesn’t work after three or four tries, you might want to try another treatment strategy. You can try this procedure every four hours or as instructed by a healthcare professional. If you consistently utilize this strategy for two weeks and you still experience symptoms, it can be an indication of a more serious issue that needs to be investigated.
You might want to think about using Alka-Seltzer if you don’t like the taste of baking soda or don’t want to measure an exact amount of baking soda (keep in mind that the baking soda to water ratio is crucial for effectiveness). In addition to sodium bicarbonate, this generic over-the-counter (OTC) drug also contains flavorings that improve the drink’s palatability.
Consider Zegerid (sodium bicarbonate plus the proton pump inhibitor omeprazole) if the transient relief from the baking soda is not enough for you and you want something stronger or longer-lasting.
Baking soda’s effectiveness for heartburn.
If you take it as directed, using baking soda to treat sporadic acid reflux might be successful.
Taking the same dose at the same time every day is beneficial. To prevent side effects and medical issues, do not take sodium bicarbonate more frequently or for a longer period of time than recommended.
According to studies, antacids like sodium bicarbonate, which can temporarily neutralize esophageal acid, have no discernible effect on gastric pH or the frequency of heartburn episodes. Do baking soda help with heartburn? Heartburn can be an unbearable experience, can baking soda and water provide easy, affordable help to bring you relief?
Antacids are not advised for the treatment of persistent heartburn because of this. Antacids are inferior to proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) at controlling stomach acid and treating persistent heartburn because they do not provide a prolonged suppression of gastric acid production.
Does baking soda work as a treatment for acid reflux?
Some people have acid reflux, which causes a burning feeling in the chest, just after eating. Although it may assist with symptoms, consumers should use baking soda carefully.
As stomach acid backs up into the food pipe, it causes acid reflux, often known as heartburn. An unpleasant aftertaste may be felt by certain persons.
Around 60 million people have acid reflux at least once a month, according to the American College of Gastroenterology. According to certain research, nearly 15 million people do it every day.
A gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or similar underlying problem may be present in anyone who has acid reflux more than twice a week and needs medical attention.
But, sodium bicarbonate or baking soda may be helpful if your acid reflux symptoms come and go and continue for less than two weeks.
Sodium bicarbonate is a component of certain over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription medications for acid reflux. For instance, ZegeridTrusted Source mixes omeprazole with sodium bicarbonate.
Yet, some individuals also use household baking soda as an antacid to combat acid reflux.
Advantages of baking soda.
To treat sporadic heartburn, mix half a teaspoon of baking soda with a glass of water.
Sodium ions and bicarbonate ions make up the salt known as baking soda, sometimes known as sodium bicarbonate.
It often appears as a fine powder or a white crystalline solid. There are other tablets and pills on the market that contain sodium bicarbonate.
Baking soda is primarily used by people as a rising agent, such as when preparing cakes. It is also a natural cleaning agent and a component of dental hygiene solutions.
Sodium bicarbonate can be used medically to increase the alkalinity of the urine, for instance, if someone has a urinary tract infection. Yet because it may have side effects, a doctor should oversee its use.
Indigestion and baking soda.
As baking soda has an alkaline pH, it is frequently used as a treatment for acid reflux and heartburn. It balances out the symptoms-causing excess stomach acid.
The Canadian Society of Intestinal Research reminds individuals that acid reflux can occasionally be treated with baking soda. They inform consumers that effervescent powder and pills of sodium bicarbonate may be purchased at a drugstore.
The authors do, however, add: “If you’re in a bind, a half teaspoon of baking soda mixed in at least 125 milliliters (ml), or half a cup, of water may offer a fast alleviation of symptoms.”
Whether you’re using a prescription or over-the-counter drug, abide by the directions on the label.
When symptoms initially start, doctors only advise taking baking soda for a short period of time. This is because if the body gets overly alkaline, additional issues might arise. Also salt, and baking soda can cause extra issues if used in excess.
It is crucial to see a physician about the proper sodium bicarbonate doses, just as with other drugs.
Only if a doctor recommends sodium bicarbonate should children under 6 years old take it.
Dangers and negative consequences.
Avoid using the baking soda approach excessively. The pH of the blood can rise if you take too many antacids. It is crucial that you take this medication as directed or strictly adhere to the instructions on the bottle in order to avoid developing metabolic alkalosis, a condition that can cause serious medical emergencies.
It should be noted that small children (under the age of six) shouldn’t use antacids unless a doctor has recommended them. This is due to the body’s increased sensitivity to the drug’s active components in adolescents. Your child may experience digestive problems as a result, such as an upset stomach, loose stools, or constipation.
Even though baking soda has been proven to be a successful treatment for heartburn, it should only be used under the supervision of a healthcare provider. Baking soda’s typical negative effects include:
- Bloating and gas
- Increased thirst Gastric discomfort
- stomach cramps
Generally, these symptoms will go away once you stop taking baking soda, but if any of them linger or alternative treatments do not help your heartburn problems, speak with your doctor.
Existing medical problems and baking soda.
Unless directed otherwise by their physician, anyone with the following medical problems should refrain from ingesting baking soda:
- Appendicitis edema, which is swelling brought on by an excess of fluid in the body’s tissues, alkalosis, where the pH of the body is higher or more alkaline than usual
- heart condition
- blood pressure is high.
- renal illness
- liver illness
- Preeclampsia is a pregnancy condition marked by high blood pressure, edema, and an abundance of proteins in the urine.
- Unless a doctor advises it, baking soda should not be used to treat acid reflux while pregnant.
Interactions between sodium bicarbonate.
Certain drugs may not be properly absorbed by the body if baking soda is present. It should not be used within two hours of another medication.
It decreases stomach acid levels, which might make it harder for the body to digest and absorb drugs.
Moreover, the following classes of drugs may interact negatively with baking soda:
If you are on any other medications, make sure to see your doctor before taking baking soda and drinking lots of water.
- Dextroamphetamine and methamphetamine
- digoxin
- elvitegravir
- gefitinib
- ketoconazole
- ledipasvir
- memantine
- pazopanib
This list is not complete, and there are still potential drug interactions with sodium bicarbonate.
When discussing the use of baking soda as an antacid with a doctor, patients should always disclose any prescription, over-the-counter, dietary supplements, or complementary or alternative medicines they are currently taking.
Dos and Don’ts with Baking Soda.
Is there really a cheap miracle product in the back of your fridge that can get rid of bad smells, keep your teeth white, and even treat diseases that could kill you?
Yes. Baking soda, which is also called bicarbonate of soda or sodium bicarbonate, can do a lot of important things. Heartburn can be an unbearable experience, but baking soda and water provide an easy, affordable remedy to bring you relief.
It has special abilities that come from a two-letter word: pH. This means the “potential or power of hydrogen” to make something acidic or basic (alkaline). Baking soda is an alkaline substance. When it is mixed with an acid, the pH level changes. So, it can quickly calm a stomachache or hide a bad smell.
Dos: Use baking soda for:
1. Calm indigestion.
Add 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda to a glass of water to get rid of acid in your stomach and ease indigestion. But acid doesn’t cause all kinds of indigestion, so call your doctor if your symptoms don’t get better in two weeks.
Don’t take baking soda within two hours of taking other drugs. When baking soda lowers the acid in your stomach, it can slow how quickly your body absorbs some medicines and change how others work. If your child’s doctor tells you not to, don’t give it to a child under 6.
2. Use it for insect bites and stings.
It’s not good for your skin every day, but it can ease the redness, itching, and stinging that come from a mild reaction to an insect bite. Baking soda is in a lot of over-the-counter creams. You can also make your own paste by mixing three parts water with one part baking soda. This also works for rashes and poison ivy.
3. Keeping your mouth healthy.
Brushing your teeth with toothpaste that has baking soda can stop tooth decay and keep your gums and mouth in good shape. You can also freshen your breath by putting a half teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of water and drinking it.
4. Control odors.
Most bad smells come from strong acids (like sour milk) or bases (like baking soda) (like spoiled fish). When you add baking soda and change the pH balance, the smells in your fridge or carpet become neutral. See if it works for you. Put a box of baking soda that has been opened in your fridge. Put it on top of the garbage in your trash can or at the bottom of your dishwasher.
Gains from baking soda.
There are a few potential mechanisms by which baking soda alleviates heartburn:
- For those on a tight time budget, baking soda is a simple and effective solution to heartburn that can be found in almost any supermarket.
- Baking soda’s ability to reduce acidity in the stomach appears promising as a treatment for heartburn. Potential beneficiaries include those experiencing severe or unusual symptoms.
- If you suffer from heartburn and don’t have access to other therapies, don’t worry; the baking soda can be bought in most grocery stores and pharmacies.
- If you’re experiencing heartburn, know that baking soda is just a short-term fix; it won’t assist with GERD or acid reflux in the long run. If used excessively, baking soda may exacerbate acid reflux by upsetting the stomach’s natural pH balance, resulting in symptoms including nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
If your heartburn is severe or continues for an extended period of time, you should see a doctor. These could help doctors determine what’s wrong with you and provide you with advice on how to fix it.
Home Treatments for Heartburn.
Many people turn to alternative treatments like herbal medicines and lifestyle changes to help alleviate their acid reflux. Several frequently utilized home treatments are:
1. Making tea with herbs.
Digestive aids include herbs like ginger, chamomile, aloe vera juice, and licorice.
2. Use the method of apple cider vinegar.
A teaspoon of apple cider vinegar mixed with some water can help with digestion, just like a baking soda can.
3. Chewing gum without sugar.
A relaxing effect on the stomach and a reduction in stomach acid production can be obtained by chewing sugar-free gum for 30 minutes.
4. Consume a banana (or another high-alkaline food).
Due to their high potassium content, bananas are a relatively alkaline fruit. This indicates that it is the ideal diet to offset the stomach acid-causing esophageal irritation.
5. Avoid tobacco products and cigarettes.
Smoking decreases salivation, which causes an increase in stomach acid production.
6. Remaining upright following meals.
It’s recommended to avoid lying down just after eating because anything that presses on the stomach or counteracts gravity from keeping food (and stomach acid) down can induce or make heartburn worse.
7. Wear loose clothes.
To ease any strain in your abdomen, you might also wish to wear loose-fitting clothing or undo your belt buckle.
It’s vital to understand that the federal government does not examine herbal treatments for safety and efficacy. They are not FDA-approved and frequently do not need to adhere to the same manufacturing and packaging regulations as prescription medications.
Never substitute a herbal treatment for a prescription drug or take one without first telling your doctor about it.
Alternative acid reflux remedies.
Acid reflux may be treated in a number of methods, including lifestyle adjustments, prescription and over-the-counter medications, and surgery.
1. Alterations in lifestyle.
By adopting any or all of the following modifications, individuals may reduce heartburn and acid reflux naturally:
2. Maintaining a healthy weight.
Maintaining a healthy weight for your height can help alleviate some of the pressure on your stomach. This prevents the food pipe from being pushed upward by stomach acid. Do baking soda help with heartburn? Heartburn can be an unbearable experience, can baking soda and water provide easy, affordable help to bring you relief?
3. Identifying and avoiding food triggers.
Certain foods and drinks may trigger acid reflux. While individual triggers vary, alcohol, chocolate, garlic, onions, caffeine, fried foods, and high-fat foods are the most common. Heartburn may be alleviated by avoiding its causes.
4. Reducing overeating and hasty eating.
After consuming heavy meals, the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) struggles to close entirely. The LES is a valve that prevents stomach acid from ascending and separates the esophagus from the stomach. Overeating may also cause heartburn.
5. Lay on your back.
Some eating habits that may reduce the risk of getting heartburn include sitting up straight while eating and waiting at least two to three hours after a meal before lying down.
6. Dressing for comfort.
Tight clothing compresses the abdomen.
7. Giving up smoking.
Unquestionably, smoking promotes GERD.
8. Raising the head of the bed.
Many who suffer from nocturnal acid reflux may find relief by elevating the head of their bed using blocks or wooden wedges.
Prescription medications for GERD
See a physician if your acid reflux lasts longer than two weeks.
If lifestyle adjustments fail to treat acid reflux, medication is often the next line of treatment. Typical prescription and nonprescription medications include:
1. Acid neutralizers.
In addition to baking soda, other antacids are available for the treatment of acid reflux and heartburn. The many options may be reviewed with a physician or pharmacist.
2. Antagonists of the H-2 receptor.
These medications inhibit gastric acid production for up to 12 hours. The pharmacy sells these, although prescriptions are necessary for the stronger kinds.
3. PPIs, or inhibitors of the proton pump.
These medications inhibit acid production for a longer duration and are more powerful than H-2 receptor blockers. This allows any damaged tissue in the digestive tract to recuperate. PPIs are available over-the-counter and without a prescription.
4. Surgery for acid reflux and GERD.
Most people are able to treat GERD and acid reflux with medication.
If not, a surgeon may recommend surgery.
Surgery to insert a magnetic device that prevents stomach acid from entering the LES and surgery to tighten the LES are further options.
Summary
Baking soda, commonly known as sodium bicarbonate, is a typical treatment for heartburn. Natural alkalinity in this pantry staple helps to balance out excess stomach acid. To treat the symptoms of heartburn at home, consume 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda dissolved in 4 ounces of water. Moreover, sodium bicarbonate can be obtained by prescription and in over-the-counter products like Alka-Seltzer. Always with your doctor before attempting any natural treatments.